Hi Michele,
I just returned from a stay at Kidani Village. You are in for such a treat! I loved so many things about it including COVERED parking! That rocks in central Florida especially during the hot summer months! While you're there, you will feel like you're a world away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. Its a great place just to relax.
Normally the end of Sept / beginning of Oct should be slower. However, the
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival begins Oct 1st thru Nov 14th which will bring on the crowds. The Wine & Dine Half Marathon is being held on Sat., Oct 2nd and runners love to run at Disney so you should expect higher crowds that weekend.
Unfortunately, for the safety of Guests and the animals, Guests are not allow to touch animals and should never attempt to do it. There are some ways that you can experience seeing these animals like no other though. If you have a room with a Savannah view, you will be able to look off your balcony at any given time day or night and see a variety of animals including but not limited to giraffes, zebras, gazelle, Anikole cattle, ostrich & vultures. You can also go over to Animal Kingdom Lodge for animal viewing with night vision. Super cool! Be sure to pick up a complete list of activities at Kidani Village and Animal Kingdom Lodge when you check in.
Wishing you many magical memories :-) Allison